New tribute unveiled for PC Dave Phillips

Friends, family and colleagues of Merseyside Police officer, PC Dave Phillips, killed on duty in October 2015, have gathered to unveil a new memorial in his honour.

PC Phillips was killed while trying to stop a stolen vehicle in Wallasey, Wirral. His death shocked all those that knew him, including many in the communities he served.

The memorial stone, funded by the Police Memorial Trust (PMT), was unveiled in the historic Hamilton Square Gardens, Birkenhead, by Mrs Geraldine Winner, Chair of the PMT, and Merseyside Chief Constable Andy Cooke.

Sergeant Pete Singleton, Chair of Merseyside Police Federation, said: “Dave was killed protecting the people he swore to serve.

"This memorial is important not only for his family, friends and the wider police family but also for the public of Wirral. It will act as a focal point to remember Dave's bravery, something that will never be forgotten.

"It is a tangible way to recognise Dave's service and sacrifice. His bravery will never be forgotten."

Members of the public joined family members and colleagues to lay floral tributes in Dave’s memory and the Merseyside Police Band played a specially selected programme of music.

Representing the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) at the ceremony, Vice Chair Calum Macleod said: “Today’s ceremony made it very clear just how special a person Dave Phillips was, not just to his friends, family and colleagues, but also to those within the communities he served.

“The reality of policing is a dangerous one, and Dave paid the ultimate price for his unselfish determination to protect others. This lasting memorial is fitting for someone who will never be forgotten by those that knew him.”

It was the 42nd memorial stone to be unveiled in memory of a fallen police officer across the UK since the Police Memorial Trust was established in 1984.